The private funeral of Gary Speed is due to take place later this week following the 42-year-old's untimely death a fortnight ago.

There were suggestions that there would be a public service for the former Wales manager, who was found hanged at his home in Cheshire, but the League Managers' Association has confirmed that a private service will be held.

A statement read: "At this time, Louise Speed and her family wish to express their deep appreciation for the very generous and clearly heartfelt tributes paid to Gary and his memory by the public and all forms of the media.

"Mrs Speed is especially grateful for the sympathetic way that the media has respected the family's privacy in these extremely distressing circumstances. She is also acutely aware how Gary touched the lives of so many people and that each of them would wish to thank him for the joy he brought to them."

A memorial service for the Leeds United legend is due to take place in the coming weeks.